The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration

¶ 01 Madam Deputy Chairperson of Committees, joining the debate on extending the State of Emergency under the Public Security Ordinance, let me make several points. The Emergency was first imposed to coordinate and manage the situation arising from Cyclone “Ditva,” mobilizing the Tri-Forces and the public service. We now seek to extend it, because under these powers we have already built 1,000 houses for the displaced and are constructing more. We still need these special provisions to restore lives.

¶ 02 In the global context of energy crises, when petroleum disruptions occur abroad, we have still been able to manage with QR codes, minimizing impact on daily life. The Iran–US tensions and possible disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could escalate at any moment. Under this law, we can swiftly deploy the Tri-Forces to ensure energy-related essential services for the people.

¶ 03 Law can be used for good or ill; what matters is who wields it. We saw how previous regimes used emergency law. We will use it only for public relief—not to arrest or harass people. We believe in freedom of speech. People once feared even to speak on the phone under the Rajapaksas. That fear was wrong. People must be able to criticize Government freely. Today, our Ministers and MPs go to shops and supermarkets; people confront us, saying promises are unfulfilled. That is their right. Today, TV stations are not set on fire; journalists are not stabbed or shot; no white vans. Our own supporters ask why we “tolerate” so much. We say: it is the people’s right. Problems arise when some who seek “freedom of expression” cannot tolerate opposing speech, and then social media content descends below acceptable standards. Even then, we do not suppress it—that is their right. But freedom also carries responsibility.

¶ 04 We did say we would repeal the PTA. Yes, it is now at the final stage. The PTA will be repealed and a new Bill brought. Within a month or two, after Cabinet approval, we will present it; we have properly defined “terrorism.”

¶ 05 The previous speaker claimed a person was detained under the PTA for singing. That is entirely false. He was not arrested for singing on stage. He later uploaded a song to social media containing lyrics that, under the 2011 regulations, glorified a proscribed terrorist organization, the LTTE. That is why he was arrested. Freedom of expression applies equally North and South; the law is not different for Tamil, Muslim, or Sinhala. The PTA still exists; we will repeal it and correct its wrongs, but this arrest was not for artistic expression. Moreover, no detention order has been issued; his lawyer can seek bail.

¶ 06 Regarding Judge Alexraja’s transfer: the Executive or Government does not interfere in judicial transfers or discipline. Those are handled independently by the Judicial Service Commission. If anyone has concerns, they should raise them with the JSC.

¶ 07 I highlight these to show our Government is different. Even our own voters sometimes dislike our restraint. But that is our strength. We will not bark or thrash about. We will deliver. Many promises are being fulfilled. Some asked, “Where are the 500 files?” Our President and I said then: do not cry when action starts. Front Benchers taunted, “Go arrest them.” Now they are panicking. Investigations into the Easter attacks and Sallay will proceed properly, and legal action will follow, without our interference. He was previously held for 90 days and no one cried then; now when a travel ban is imposed on Gotabaya Rajapaksa, suddenly there is an uproar.

¶ 08 Madam, two more minutes? Thank you; I will be brief.

¶ 09 This outcry is not out of love for Sallay. They hope to derail the investigation near him; because beyond him, there may be a bigger mastermind. I do not know; the Police are investigating. But see how, the moment a travel ban was imposed on Gotabaya, the chorus began. We appeal to the intelligent public: we promised justice for the Easter victims, proper investigations, and to bring all before court based on evidence. That is why there is noise now. But 278 people died; over 500 were injured. Some channels that did not speak then now shed crocodile tears. When Sarath Fonseka was hauled in, who stood for him as a war hero?

¶ 10 I assure the public: be satisfied with your Government. Promises are being delivered. Give us a few more months; the results will speak.

¶ 11 Thank you.